144-year-old Woolen Mill reopens in Faribault

The 144-year-old Faribault Woolen Mill closed in 2009 because of the recession. Work started back up again today at what's believed to be the only fully-integrated mill in North America -- meaning it washes, dyes and weaves wool fiber into finished products.

The 144-year-old Faribault Woolen Mill closed in 2009 because of the recession. Work started back up again today at what's believed to be the only fully-integrated mill in North America -- meaning it washes, dyes and weaves wool fiber into finished products.

Verso Paper has decided against reopening the Sartell mill that was damaged by an explosion and fire on Memorial Day. 259 people had worked at the plant. A company executive says it was a difficult decision, but the mill had not been competitive in recent years. Verso says it will work with local officials on finding a new use for the site.

General Mills has been pitching gluten-free products to a niche market. The New York Times Magazine reports in the process the Golden Valley company has become heroes for people with a rare digestive disorder. General Mills has put gluten-free lables on more than 300 of its products and has reformulated others--like Chex cereals, to appeal to people with ciliac disease.

Facebook and Twitter have become places for some in central Minnesota to share their thoughts after a massive fire destroyed the Swany White flour mill last Tuesday. The St. Cloud Times reports the Freeport mill was family-owned and operated for more than 100 years. The mill won't be rebuilt, but the family might continue some of the Swany White products.

A limited number of Cascadian Farm Granola Bars may be linked to a larger recall of peanut products due to salmonella contamination. General Mills announced the recall is a precaution because peanut pieces may have been sourced from Sunland, Inc. The peanut manufacturer has expanded its recall to 240 products after 35 people from 19 states have fallen ill.